Now in its sixth edition, the Varese Estense Festival Menotti has established itself as one of the most significant cultural events of the Varese summer season. The festival is dedicated to the renowned Varese-born musician, librettist, and composer Gian Carlo Menotti.
At the heart of the festival are the enchanting Estensi Gardens and Palazzo Estense, iconic landmarks of what has often been described as the “little Versailles of Milan.”
The festival presents a diverse program of events ranging from opera to music and theatre, curated according to a cultural vision that promotes and enhances the local heritage while fostering the cultural growth of the community.

2026 Programme

9 June 2026 – 9:00 PM
Young Bands in Concert
Cinema Teatro Nuovo, Viale dei Mille 39, Varese
Followed by: Francesco Caggiano Live

26 June 2026 – 8:30 PM
The Songs of Federico García Lorca
Salone Estense, Via Luigi Sacco 5, Varese
Concert-reading

5 July 2026 – 8:30 PM
The Winter of Our Discontent: Henze and Shakespeare
Salone Estense, Via Luigi Sacco 5, Varese
Concert-reading

10 August 2026 – 9:00 PM
Night of the Poets
Villa and Toeplitz Park, Viale Giovan Battista Vico, Varese
Curated by Dino Azzalin and Cascina della Poesia

2 November 2026 – 9:00 PM
Caruso & the Girl – National Premiere
Teatro di Varese, Piazza della Repubblica, Varese
Opera by Paolo Coggiola

22 November 2026 – 4:00 PM
Fires by Marguerite Yourcenar
Salone Estense, Via Luigi Sacco 5, Varese
Theatrical performance

FOR INFORMATION AND TICKETS: email organizzazione@teatrogiornidispari.it